This fall marked the kickoff of our revitalized Emerging Leaders Program, where 16 rising stars from Virginia’s beer wholesalers came together to learn the nuances of our industry, refine their business acumen, and connect with peers from across the Commonwealth.

But don’t let the term “Emerging” fool you.

Yes, we have participants who are new to the field, including recent college graduates and professionals transitioning from other industries.

But we also have veteran wholesalers eager to expand their expertise – whether it’s honing their skills in legislative advocacy or deepening their understanding of the complex state and federal regulations that shape our business.

They’re learning from top-tier experts in law, finance, communication, and more.

Our four-part program spans the Commonwealth. What began with a dynamic session in Virginia Beach in September moves to Alexandria this month, then on to Roanoke, and finally concludes in Richmond in January, where our emerging leaders will participate in our “Day on the Hill” on January 23. There, they will apply their newfound knowledge, experiencing firsthand how legislative processes directly influence our industry.

  • On the topic of regulations, one significant point of discussion among Virginia wholesalers is the rise of cannabis-infused beverages. While still early in the conversation, we recognize the need to stay ahead of the curve as this market grows and federal and state lawmakers consider how marijuana, in its various forms, will be regulated. We’re keeping a close eye on how this emerging industry could impact our operations and members.
  • We’re also at the tail-end of a multi-year effort to review and amend the Alcoholic Beverage Control section of the Virginia Code. In doing so, ABC wanted to “remove any redundancies or language that contradicts the Code…modernize various processes, and make sure the regulations comport with current practices.” Despite no significant policy changes, VBWA outside counsel Kevin McNally was part of the process to ensure the agency’s goals are fairly and correctly achieved. Most changes are relatively straightforward and of little interest to wholesalers. Of note, ABC proposed the repeal of minimum deposit requirements on kegs; if wholesalers must charge retailers for kegs, they must charge the same regardless of retailer.

Finally, October offers me a moment to look back on the progress and transformation we’ve seen over the past decade. I’m honored to reflect on 10 years with VBWA and build on the legacy of my predecessor, Denny Gallagher, and extend my thanks to the VBWA Board for acknowledging this milestone at our recent meeting. I’m also proud to represent you and Virgina as I was sworn in this month as president of the Wholesale Beer Association Executives (WBAE).

Leading the WBAE is a sign of how much we have accomplished together to make Virginia a leader among our peers. I want to thank not only our Board and VBWA leaders but our skilled staff: Kelli Gaudreau, who keeps our programs and financials in order, and in-house general counsel Mike Mullin, who celebrates a year with us in November.

We’ve modernized our business practices, worked to meaningfully engage members, supported regulations that promote our business and ensure competition and safety, and strengthened the financial foundation that supports our work. We also moved this summer to a new headquarters in the James Center, with the Board voting to sell our historic headquarters just a few blocks away and invest the proceeds in our future.

These efforts have positioned us to face the challenges of the future with confidence.

The upcoming elections present new opportunities, and it’s more important than ever for members to stay involved and make their voices heard. The policies shaped in the next legislative session could have long-lasting effects on how we operate.

I encourage all members—whether you’re an Emerging Leader just starting your journey or a long-time industry veteran—to actively participate, stay informed, and advocate for the future we all share. Let’s build a beer and regulated beverage industry that thrives for decades to come.

Cheers,

Philip H. Boykin
President & CEO
Virginia Beer Wholesalers Association

In September, VBWA Board chair Scott Heinz presented Phil with a plaque in grateful appreciation of his 10 years of service to members. Phil was also sworn in as president of the Wholesale Beer Association Executives (WBAE) at the NBWA Annual Convention this month.

VBWA’S Emerging Leaders Program

  • Session One: September 17-18, 2024 — The Cavalier Resort, Virginia Beach
  • Session Two: October 16-17, 2024 — Meetings at the National Beer Wholesalers Association offices, Alexandria (hotel information coming soon)
  • Session Three: November 13-14, 2024 — The Hotel Roanoke, Roanoke
  • Session Four & Graduation Ceremony: Date TBD, January 2025 — During the 2025 Legislative Conference in Richmond 

 

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